Consolidation would bump up teacher salaries

I read with great dismay the article written by SVM reporter David Giuliani on the consolidation of Rock Falls Elementary District 13 and Rock Falls High School District 301. Did this reporter do any research at all before writing this, or was he just beating a deadline?

First of all, if the consolidation took place, all elementary teachers would move up to District 301’s pay scale, costing more to educate the same students. District 13 already educates more students for less money than District 301 and has smart board technology in all classrooms. In addition, District 13 had the foresight to take advantage of low interest rates to expand and/or improve its buildings, while if you tour the high school, you’ll see disrepair in most areas.

Just for the sake of argument, ask Sterling how its unit school district has fared. They are in the same dire financial straits as everybody else. If not for great fundraising and the help of an “anonymous” donor, Sterling Schools would surely not have anything close to what they have in place and should be commended for their dedication.

If you’re really looking for a story of how the taxpayers of Rock Falls have been fleeced, dig into past superintendents’ retirement packages District 301 has doled out. Publish those facts, and you will indeed be a superior reporter, in this humble reader’s eyes.